Style, as a topic connected with syntax, is the particular manner in which a person expresses his conceptions by means of language.  It is different from mere words, different from mere grammar, in any limited sense, and is not to be regulated altogether by rules of construction.  It always has some relation to the author’s peculiar manner of thinking; involves, to some extent, and shows his literary, if not his moral, character; is, in general, that sort of expression which his thoughts most readily assume; and, sometimes, partakes not only of what is characteristic of the man, of his profession, sect, clan, or province, but even of national peculiarity, or some marked feature of the age.  The words which an author employs, may be proper in themselves, and so constructed as to violate no rule of syntax, and yet his style may have great faults.

In reviews and critical essays, the general characters of style are usually designated by such epithets as these;—­concise, diffuse,—­neat, negligent,—­terse, bungling,—­nervous, weak,—­forcible, feeble,—­vehement, languid,—­simple, affected,—­easy, stiff,—­pure, barbarous,—­perspicuous, obscure,—­elegant, uncouth,—­florid, plain,—­flowery, artless,—­fluent, dry,—­piquant, dull,—­stately, flippant,—­majestic, mean,—­pompous, modest,—­ancient, modern.  A considerable diversity of style, may be found in compositions all equally excellent in their kind.  And, indeed, different subjects, as well as the different endowments by which genius is distinguished, require this diversity.  But, in forming his style, the learner should remember, that a negligent, feeble, affected, stiff, uncouth, barbarous, or obscure style is always faulty; and that perspicuity, ease, simplicity, strength, neatness, and purity, are qualities always to be aimed at.

In order to acquire a good style, the frequent practice of composing and writing something, is indispensably necessary.  Without exercise and diligent attention, rules or precepts for the attainment of this object, will be of no avail.  When the learner has acquired such a knowledge of grammar, as to be in some degree qualified for the undertaking, he should devote a stated portion of his time to composition.  This exercise will bring the powers of his mind into requisition, in a way that is well calculated to strengthen them.  And if he has opportunity for reading, he may, by a diligent perusal of the best authors, acquire both language and taste as well as sentiment;—­and these three are the essential qualifications of a good writer.

In regard to the qualities which constitute a good style, we can here offer nothing more than a few brief hints.  With respect to words and phrases, particular attention should be paid to three things—­purity, propriety, and precision; and, with respect to sentences, to three others,—­perspicuity, unity, and strength.  Under each of these six heads, we shall arrange, in the form of short precepts, a few of the most important directions for the forming of a good style.